Imagining to learn: quantifying network activation patterns to understand the brain mechanisms underlying motor imagery-based skill acquisition

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Our ability to learn highly skilled sequences of movements is key to many aspects of human performance. From the flawless triple jump of a figure skater to life-saving surgeries, skilled movements are honed through a process called motor learning. Motor learning happens because our brain changes as we repetitively practice new movements. We usually practice a movement by actually doing it. This is called physical practice. However, it’s not always possible to physically practice a movement; athletes get injured, surgeons get tired, and some people re-learning movement after a brain injury can’t move at all. It turns out that it’s possible to practice a movement without moving at all;